The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has announced that the Assiniboine Park Zoo has received Top Honors in the AZA 2015 Award for Exhibit Design for annual operating budgets over $5 million category for its Journey to Churchill exhibit. The Assiniboine Park Zoo is the first Canadian facility to win this award since the awards started in 1974.

“This award is the highest honor for new exhibits and recognizes the Assiniboine Park Zoo’s innovation and commitment in designing a dynamic, immersive habitat that provides the best in animal care and public education to help connect people with nature,” said AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy.

With its annual Exhibit Award, AZA recognizes excellence by an AZA-accredited Institution (US or International) or Related Facility member in the areas of exhibit design and providing visitors with the opportunity to engage in observing and learning about the animals.

“It’s a tremendous accomplishment to win such a prestigious award and we’re absolutely thrilled,” said Dr. Brian Joseph, Sr. Director, Animal Management & Conservation for the Assiniboine Park Conservancy. “The opening of Journey to Churchill marked a turning point in the history of Assiniboine Park Zoo and it’s wonderful to be recognized for this important exhibit.”